A MASWINGS ATR aircraft carrying 29 passengers on a flight from Miri International Airport to Labuan had to turn around when smoke was detected in the cabin this afternoon.

A Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department operations centre spokesman said based on information from airport firefighters, the pilot had contacted Miri International Airport on the incident. There were 25 passengers, two pilots and two flight attendants on board.

He said seven personnel and two fire engines from the Miri International Airport Fire and Rescue team were dispatched to prepare the runway as soon as the distress call was received at 4.32pm.

“The plane departed from Miri for Labuan at 4.05pm but turned around and landed safely at 4.24pm. All passengers and crew are safe,” he said.

He said Miri International Airport authorities confirmed no fire occurred but the flight was subsequently cancelled. – Bernama, May 31, 2020.